Tennessee Acceptable Forms of Notarization ID

What are acceptable forms of ID for Notarization in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a notary must verify a signer's identity using a current, government-issued photo ID, such as a state driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, or military ID. The ID must be unexpired or issued within the past 5 years. Other acceptable forms include Resident Alien cards (green cards).

Valid Forms of Identification

• Driver’s License: Valid (unexpired) state-issued driver's license.

• State ID Card: Valid (unexpired) state-issued identification card.

• Passport: Current U.S. passport.

• Military ID: U.S. military identification card.

• Resident Alien Card: Also known as a "green card".

• Other Government Photo ID: Employment authorization card, Certificate of Naturalization, or Citizenship ID card.

Key Requirements

• Photo & Signature: The ID must contain a photo and signature.

• Validity: The ID must be current or issued within the last 5 years.

• Condition: The ID cannot have a hole punched in it.

• Name Matching: The name on the ID must match the name on the document, or the ID must show a more complete version of the name.

Unacceptable Identification

• Birth or marriage certificates.

• Social Security cards.

• School or student ID cards.

• Credit cards or debit cards.

• Copies of IDs (notary must see the original).

If you lack these, a notary may use "personal knowledge" or the oath of a credible witness.